Student Handbook

High School East 2020 / 2021 Edition

Building AdministrationDr. Milton K. Strong, Principal

Mr. Shaun Hantzschel, Assistant Principal Mr. Brett Kindelmann, Assistant Principal

Mr. Paul Perskin, Assistant PrincipalMs. Naimah Trotter, Assistant Principal

Board of EducationMrs. Diana Acampora Mrs. Betty DeSabatoMr. Eric GeringswaldMrs. Stephanie Gurin

Mr. David KastonMr. Adam KleinbergMr. Michael Prywes

Central Office AdministrationDr. Patrick Harrigan, Superintendent of Schools

Dr. Jeffery A. Woodberry, Assistant Superintendent for District-wide AdministrationMs. Diana Ketcham, Assistant Superintendent for Elementary Education

Ms. Anne Marie Marrone Caliendo, Assistant Superintendent for Finance & FacilitiesMr. John O’Farrell, Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Education

Home of the

THUNDERBIRDS

COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE DIRECTORY 5...............................................HALF HOLLOW HILLS CENTRAL DISTRICT 6.........................................CODE OF CONDUCT 6......................................................................................PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE: 19.............................................................................DISCIPLINE POLICY STATEMENT 20..........................................................OVERVIEW 20......................................................................................................STUDENTS’ RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES 21..................................DEFINITION OF TERMS 23.............................................................................

ACTIVITY SUSPENSION 23....................................................................................................DETENTION 23...........................................................................................................................INAPPROPRIATE LANGUAGE 23.........................................................................................IN-SCHOOL SUPERVISION 23...............................................................................................SUSPENSION 24.........................................................................................................................SUPERINTENDENT’S SUSPENSION 24..............................................................................

RULES AND REGULATIONS 24.....................................................................AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES 24...........................................................................................ASSEMBLY BEHAVIOR 24.......................................................................................................ATTENDANCE 25.......................................................................................................................ATTENDANCE / ABSENCE 25.................................................................................................BALL PLAYING 25......................................................................................................................BIAS CRIMES 25.........................................................................................................................CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY 25.........................................................................................CHEATING 26..............................................................................................................................CLASS CUTTING 26..................................................................................................................CLASS DISTURBANCE 27.......................................................................................................CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE ABUSE 27..............................................................................DIRT BIKES 27.............................................................................................................................ELECTRONIC DEVICES 27......................................................................................................EXTORTION 27...........................................................................................................................FALSE FIRE ALARMS / FALSE REPORTING 28.................................................................

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PTSA Executive CommitteeDayle Dalia, Co-President

Virginia D'Ambrosi, Co-PresidentJeanmarie Mallon, Co-Vice President

Lisa Tuzzolo, Co-Vice PresidentHina Shah, Treasurer

Maureen Charalambous, Corresponding SecretaryDenise Katz, Recording Secretary

Nichole Floropoulos, Delegate to CouncilBlayne Peltzman, Delegate to Council

Karen Petruzzelli, Past President

FALSE REPORTING OF BOMB THREATS 28.....................................................................FIELD TRIPS 28...........................................................................................................................FIREWORKS 28...........................................................................................................................GAMBLING 28............................................................................................................................HALL PASSES 28.........................................................................................................................HARASSMENT 28......................................................................................................................INTERNET USER AGREEMENT 29.......................................................................................LASER POINTERS 31.................................................................................................................MEDICATIONS 31......................................................................................................................OTHER BEHAVIOR TERMED OFFENSIVE 31....................................................................PERMISSION TO LEAVE SCHOOL GROUNDS 31...........................................................PETS 31..........................................................................................................................................SCHOOL BUS MISCONDUCT 31...........................................................................................SCHOOL DRESS 31....................................................................................................................SELLING AND FUNDRAISING 32........................................................................................SKATEBOARDING 32...............................................................................................................SMOKING / NO SMOKING LAW COMPLIANCE 32.......................................................COMPREHENSIVE ALCOHOL, TOBACCO, AND OTHER SUBSTANCE USE /

ABUSE (BOARD POLICY) 32..........................................................................................SNOWBALLS & SLEIGH RIDING 33....................................................................................SORORITIES & FRATERNITIES 34.......................................................................................STUDENT IDENTIFICATION CARDS 34............................................................................STUDENT PARKING PERMITS 34........................................................................................TARDINESS 35............................................................................................................................TEXTBOOKS 36...........................................................................................................................THEFT 36.......................................................................................................................................TRESPASSING 36.......................................................................................................................VAPING 36....................................................................................................................................VIOLENCE 37..............................................................................................................................WEAPONS, EXPLOSIVES AND OTHER DANGEROUS INSTRUMENTS 37.............

TITLE IX 39............................................................................................................GENERAL INFORMATION 39.........................................................................

“A” DAY “B” DAY SCHEDULE 39..........................................................................................ADULT EDUCATION 39...........................................................................................................ANNOUNCEMENTS 39............................................................................................................BULLETIN BOARDS 39.............................................................................................................

CLUBS & ACTIVITIES 40..................................................................................CHANGE OF ADDRESS AND/OR TELEPHONE NUMBER 40.......................................COMMUNICABLE DISEASES 40...........................................................................................COUNSELING CENTER 40......................................................................................................GRADUATION CREDIT REQUIREMENTS 40...................................................................

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DELAYED OPENING OF SCHOOL 41...................................................................................EARLY DISMISSAL PASS 41...................................................................................................EARLY GRADUATION 41........................................................................................................EMERGENCY CLOSING 42.....................................................................................................HOMEBOUND INSTRUCTION 42........................................................................................HOMEWORK 42..........................................................................................................................IMMUNIZATION LAW 42........................................................................................................JANUARY REGENTS EXAMINATIONS 42..........................................................................LABORATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR SCIENCE REGENTS EXAM 43.......................LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER 43.................................................................................................LOCKERS 43................................................................................................................................LOST AND FOUND 44..............................................................................................................MAIN OFFICE 44........................................................................................................................MINI COLLEGE ORIENTATION DAYS 44...........................................................................PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE & MOMENT OF SILENCE 44...............................................PERSONAL PROPERTY 44.......................................................................................................PHYSICAL EDUCATION MEDICAL EXEMPTIONS 44....................................................PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS 45...........................................................................................STUDENT ASSISTANCE FUND (SPONSORED BY THE PTSA) 46...............................VISITORS 46................................................................................................................................WORKING PAPERS 46..............................................................................................................

SPECIAL PROGRAMS 46..................................................................................ADVANCED PLACEMENT 46.................................................................................................COLLEGE COURSES 46............................................................................................................EXTRA HELP 47...........................................................................................................................STUDENT AIDES 47..................................................................................................................TECHNICAL SCHOOL PROGRAMS (WILSON TECH) 47..............................................TUTORING SERVICES 47........................................................................................................

STUDENT EVALUATION & PERFORMANCE 48.......................................REPORT CARDS 48....................................................................................................................WEIGHTING OF COURSES 48...............................................................................................TRANSCRIPTS 49.......................................................................................................................GRADE REPORTING PROCESS 49.......................................................................................WITHDRAWING FROM A COURSE 49................................................................................HONOR ROLLS 49.....................................................................................................................

HHH ACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICY 53..................................................STUDENT GOVERNMENT 55.........................................................................IMPORTANT DATES FOR 2020-21 SCHOOL YEAR 57..............................BELL SCHEDULE 58...........................................................................................SCHOOL CALENDAR 59..................................................................................

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COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE DIRECTORYGeneral Information-Main Office 592-3100.......................................................Guidance Department 592-3150..........................................................................Attendance Office 592-3135.................................................................................Nurses’ Offices 592-3101/3127............................................................................Mr. Robert Citrano, Director of Guidance 592-3150.........................................Alanon & Alateen Groups Alcohol Related Problems ……669-2827............ (help for family and friends of an alcoholic)Alcohol Hotline 549-8700.....................................................................................Alcoholics Anonymous (24 hour hotline) 654-1124............................................Amityville Drug and Alcohol 789-3700..............................................................Babylon Youth Bureau 422-7660..........................................................................Career/College Information: Counseling Center 592-3150............................Change of Address and/or Phone: Main Office 592-3100...............................Changing Schools: Main Office 592-3100..........................................................College & Financial Aid: Counseling Center 592-3150....................................Family Service League of Huntington 427-1768...............................................Homebound Instruction: Assistant Principal 592-3108...................................Huntington Crisis Counseling Hotline 549-8700..............................................Huntington Drug & Alcohol 271-3591...............................................................Huntington Hotline (Suicide Prevention) 549-8700............................................Jewish Counseling Services 724-6300.................................................................Locker Problem: Assistant Principal 592-3128..................................................Long Island Council of Churches 727-2210.......................................................Lost and Found: Main Office 592-3100...............................................................Madonna Heights 643-8800.................................................................................National Runaway Switch Board – Hotline 1-800-786-2929...........................Parking Permits: Assistant Principal 592-3115..................................................Personal Problems: Counseling Center 592-3150............................................Poison Control Hotline 24 Hour 1-800-222-1222..............................................Reach C.Y.A 549-9417............................................................................................Response: Suicide Prevention 751-7500.............................................................Sanctuary Project (Runaway Prevention) 271-2183.............................................Schedule Problems: Counseling Center 592-3150.............................................South Oaks Hospital 264-4000.............................................................................Student Attendance: Attendance Office 592-3135............................................Suicide Prevention: Middle Earth Switchboard 1-516-679-1111.....................Town of Huntington Youth Bureau 351-3061....................................................Transcripts: Counseling Center 592-3150...........................................................Working Papers: Counseling Center………………………………..592-3150 


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HALF HOLLOW HILLS CENTRAL DISTRICTCODE OF CONDUCT

Implementing Project SAVE and the Dignity for All Students Act

BOARD OF EDUCATIONMrs. Diana Acampora Mrs. Betty DeSabatoMr. Eric GeringswaldMrs. Stephanie Gurin

Mr. David KastonMr. Adam KleinbergMr. Michael Prywes

SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLSDr. Patrick Harrigan

ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT FOR SECONDARY EDUCATIONMr. John O’Farrell

ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT FOR FINANCE & FACILITIESMs. Anne Marie Marrone Caliendo

ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT FOR ELEMENTARY EDUCATIONMs. Diana Ketcham

ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT FOR DISTRICT-WIDE ADMINISTRATIONDr. Jeffery Woodberry

BUILDING PRINCIPALS

High School EastDr. Milton K. Strong

High School WestDr. Michael Catapano

Candlewood Middle SchoolMs. Pamela Higgins

West Hollow Middle SchoolMr. Steven Hauk

Otsego Elementary School Dr. Stacy Gillespie

Paumanok Elementary SchoolMs. Kendra Cooper

Signal Hill Elementary SchoolDr. Maryann Fasciana

Sunquam Elementary SchoolMs. Karen Littell

Vanderbilt Elementary SchoolMr. Martin Boettcher

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Introduction

The Board of Education of the Half Hollow Hills Central School District is committed to providing a safe and orderly school environment where students may receive, and District personnel may deliver quality educational services without disruption or interference. Responsible behavior by students, teachers, other district personnel, parents and other visitors is essential to achieving this goal.

The District has a long-standing set of expectations for conduct on school property and at school functions. These expectations are based on the principles of civility, mutual respect, citizenship, character, tolerance, honesty and integrity.

The Board recognizes the need to clearly define these expectations for acceptable conduct on school property, to identify the possible consequences of unacceptable conduct, and to ensure that discipline when necessary is administered promptly and fairly. To this end, the Board adopts this Code of Conduct (“the Code”).

Unless otherwise indicated, this Code applies to all students, school personnel, parents and other visitors when on school property or attending a school function whether on or off school property.

DefinitionsFor the purposes of this code, the following definitions apply.

• “Bullying” is a hostile activity, which harms or induces fear through the threat of further aggression and/or creates terror. Bullying may be premeditated or a sudden activity. It may be subtle or easy to identify, done by one person or a group. Examples of bullying include, but are not limited to:

• Verbal bullying includes, but is not limited to, name calling, insulting remarks, teasing, violent threats, frightening phone calls, extortion, taunting, gossip, spreading of rumors and racist slurs.• Physical bullying includes but is not limited to, poking, slapping, hitting, tripping or causing a fall, choking, kicking, punching, biting, scratching, spitting, twisting arms or legs, damaging clothes and personal property, or threatening gestures.• Social or relational bullying includes but is not limited to, excluding someone from a group, isolating, shunning, spreading rumors or gossiping, arranging public humiliation, undermining relationships, teasing about clothing or looks, giving dirty looks or aggressive stares.• Cyberbullying includes, but is not limited to, threatening electronic communications via social media, instant messages, text messages, email, blogs, chat rooms, gaming systems, and any social networking sites.

• “Discrimination” is the act of denying rights, benefits, justice, equitable treatment or access to facilities available to all others, to an individual or group of people because of the group, class or category to which that person belongs.• “Disruptive student” means any student under the age of 21 who is substantially disruptive of the educational process or substantially interferes with the teacher’s authority over the classroom.• “Gender” means actual or perceived sex, and a person’s gender identity or expression. (N.Y. Education Law § 11.6)

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• “Harassment” means the creation of a hostile environment by conduct or by verbal threats, intimidation or abuse that has or would have the effect of unreasonably and substantially interfering with a student’s educational performance, opportunities or benefits, or mental, emotional or physical well-being; or conduct, verbal threats, intimidation or abuse that reasonably causes or would reasonably be expected to cause an individual to fear for his or her physical safety; such conduct, verbal threats, intimidation or abuse includes but is not limited to conduct, verbal threats, intimidation or abuse based on a person’s actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender (identity or expression) or sex. (N.Y. Education Law § 11.7)• “Hazing” is an induction, initiation, or membership process involving harassment which produces public humiliation, physical or emotional discomfort, bodily injury or public ridicule or creates a situation where public humiliation, physical or emotional discomfort, bodily injury or ridicule is likely to occur.• “Parent” means parent, guardian or person in parental relation to a student.• “School property” means in or within any building, structure, athletic playing field, playground, parking lot or land contained within the real property boundary line of a public elementary or secondary school, or in or on a school bus (including at the bus stop) as defined in Vehicle and Traffic Law § 142.• “School function” means any school-sponsored extracurricular event or activity whether on or off school property, including, but not limited to, field trips and foreign travel.• “Student with a disability” means a student classified as having a disability.• “Sexual orientation” means actual or perceived heterosexuality, homosexuality or bisexuality. (N.Y. Education Law § 11.6)• “Violent student” means a student under the age of 21 who:

• Attempts / commits an act of violence upon a school employee.• Attempts / commits, while on school property or at a school function, an act of violence upon another student or any other person lawfully on school property or at the school function.• Possesses, while on school property or at a school function, a weapon.• Displays, while on school property or at a school function, what appears to be a weapon.• Threatens, while on school property or at a school function, to use a weapon.• Knowingly and intentionally damages or destroys the personal property of any school employee or any person lawfully on school property or at a school function.• Knowingly and intentionally damages or destroys school property.

• “Weapon” means a weapon or firearm as defined in Half Hollow Hills Board of Education Policy #5535.

Student RightsThe District is committed to safeguarding the rights given to all students under state and federal law. In addition, to promote a safe, healthy, orderly and civil school environment, all District students have the right to:

• Take part in all District activities on an equal basis regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, religion, gender or disability.• Present their version of the relevant events to school personnel authorized to impose a disciplinary penalty in connection with the imposition of the penalty.

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• Access school rules (Students will be required to sign an acknowledgment that they received a Student Handbook) and, when necessary, receive an explanation of those rules from school personnel.

New York State Dignity For All Students Act (DASA) No student shall be subjected to harassment, intimidation, discrimination, or bullying by any school employee or student. All forms of harassment, intimidation, discrimination or bullying are strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated on school property and at school functions.

The Dignity Act (DASA) includes, but is not limited to the following 11 protected classes, groups or characteristics. The Dignity Act prohibits any discrimination based on actual or perceived characteristics. Students in Public Schools in New York State are protected from discrimination, harassment and persecution on the basis of actual or perceived: Race, Color, Weight, National Origin, Ethnic Group, Religion, Religious Practice, Sex, Gender, Sexual Orientation, and Disability.

In compliance with Section 801-a of New York State Education Law and the Dignity Act, all schools in the Half Hollow Hills Central School District will provide instruction in civility, citizenship and character education by expanding the concepts of tolerance, respect and dignity.

The Half Hollow Hills Central School District encourages student, family and community involvement in the reporting and prevention of discrimination and harassment. A Dignity Act Coordinator (DAC) has been appointed to each school building within the District. The Dignity Act Coordinator or the Principal’s designee will investigate all reports of discrimination or harassment related to DASA.

Student ResponsibilitiesAll District students have the responsibility to:

• Contribute to maintaining a safe and orderly school environment that is conducive to learning and to show respect to other persons and their property.• Be familiar with and abide by all District policies, rules and regulations dealing with student conduct.• Attend school every day unless they are legally excused and be in class on time and prepared to learn.• Work to the best of their ability in all academic and extracurricular pursuits and strive toward their highest level of achievement possible.• React to direction given by teachers, administrators and other school personnel in a respectful, positive manner.• Work to develop mechanisms to control their anger.• Ask questions when they do not understand.• Seek help in solving problems that might lead to discipline.• Dress appropriately for school and school functions in accordance with the adopted “Dress Code.”• Accept responsibility for their actions.• Conduct themselves as representatives of the District when participating in or attending school-sponsored extracurricular events and to hold themselves to the highest standards of conduct, demeanor, and sportsmanship.

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• Be forthcoming with information concerning violations of the Code.

Student Dress CodeAll students are expected to give proper attention to personal cleanliness and to dress appropriately for school and school functions including extracurricular and athletic activities. Students and their parents have the primary responsibility for acceptable student dress and appearance. Teachers and all other District personnel should exemplify and reinforce acceptable student dress and help students develop an understanding of appropriate appearance in the school setting and at school activities.

A student’s dress, grooming and appearance, including hair style/color, jewelry, make-up and nails, shall:

• Be safe, appropriate and not disrupt or interfere with the educational process.• Recognize that extremely brief, tight and short garments such as tube tops, net tops, halter tops, spaghetti straps, plunging necklines (front and/or back), see-through garments and garments which expose bare midriffs are not appropriate.• Ensure that underwear is completely covered with outer clothing.• Include footwear at all times. Footwear that is a safety hazard will not be allowed.• Permit head covers in school; however, head cover in classrooms are at the teachers’ discretion except for a medical or religious purpose.• Not include items that are vulgar, obscene, libelous or denigrate others on account of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, disability or gang related.• Not promote and/or endorse the use of alcohol, tobacco or illegal drugs and/or encourage other illegal or violent activities.• Attire that may disrupt the educational process is unacceptableEach building

principal, or his or her designee, shall be responsible for informing all students and their parents of the student dress code at the beginning of the school year and any revisions to the dress code made during the school year.

Additionally, the principal or his or her designee shall have the authority to determine what is a violation of the “Dress Code.”

This code is designed to be a guide and is by no means all inclusive. Final decision concerning the appropriateness will be made by the building administration or principal. Students who violate the student dress code shall be required to modify their appearance by covering or removing the offending item and, if necessary or practical, replacing it with an acceptable item. Any student who refuses to do so shall be subject to discipline, up to and including out-of-school suspension. Any student who repeatedly fails to comply with the dress code shall be subject to further discipline, up to and including out-of-school suspension.

Prohibited ConductThe Board of Education expects all individuals to conduct themselves in an

appropriate and civil manner, with proper regard for the rights and welfare of students, District personnel and other members of the school community, and for the care of school facilities and equipment.

The best discipline is self-imposed, and individuals must learn to assume and accept responsibility for their own behavior, as well as the consequences of their misbehavior. District personnel who interact with students are expected to use disciplinary action only when necessary and to place emphasis on the student’s ability to grow in self-discipline.

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The Board recognizes the need to make its expectations for conduct while on school property or engaged in a school function specific and clear. The rules of conduct listed below are intended to do that, and focus on safety and respect for the rights and property of others. Individuals who will not accept responsibility for their own behavior and who violate these school rules will be required to accept the consequences/penalties for their conduct.

The Code of Conduct shall apply to conduct off of school property and/or outside of school functions, for conduct that may endanger the health or safety of pupils within the educational system, or adversely affect the educational process.

Engage in conduct that is DISORDERLY. Examples of disorderly conduct include, but are not limited to:

• Running in hallways.• Making unreasonable noise.• Using language, actions or gestures that are profane, lewd, vulgar or abusive.• Obstructing vehicular or pedestrian traffic.• Engaging in any willful act which disrupts the normal operation of the school community.• Trespassing. Students are not permitted in any school building, other than the one they regularly attend, without permission from the administrator in charge of the building.• Computer/electronic communications misuse, including any unauthorized use of computers, software, or Internet/Intranet account; accessing inappropriate web sites; or any other violation of the District’s acceptable use policy.• In addition, students are not permitted on school grounds outside of normal school hours without administrative authorization unless attending a school function or an event sanctioned by the school.

Engage in conduct that is INSUBORDINATE and/or DISRUPTIVE. 
Examples of insubordinate or disruptive conduct include, but are not limited to:

• Failing to comply with the reasonable directions of teachers, school 
administrators or other school employees in charge of students or otherwise demonstrating disrespect.• Lateness for missing or leaving school without permission.• Skipping detention.• Being disrespectful or acting inappropriately toward teams, groups of people, or persons visiting the school.

Engage in conduct that is VIOLENT. Examples of violent conduct include, but are not limited to:

• Committing an act of violence (such as hitting, kicking, punching, and scratching) upon a teacher, administrator or other school employee, or attempting to do so.• Committing an act of violence (such as hitting, kicking, punching, and scratching) upon another student or any other person lawfully on school property, or attempting to do so• Possessing a weapon. See Board of Education Policy #5535. Authorized law enforcement officials are the only persons permitted to have a weapon in their possession while on school property or at a school function.• Displaying what appears to be a weapon.

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• Threatening to use any weapon.• Damaging, defacing or destroying the personal property of a student, teacher, administrator, other District employee or any person lawfully on school property, including using graffiti or arson.• Damaging, defacing or destroying school District property.

Engage in conduct that ENDANGERS THE SAFETY, MORALS, HEALTH OR WELFARE OF THEMSELVES AND/OR OTHERS. Examples of such conduct include, but are not limited to:

• The sending, receiving or forwarding of sexually provocative language, images, nude or nearly nude photos and/or videos through text message, email or other digital means which can be used to hurt, harass and humiliate others. In cases where a student engages in such conduct, and school officials have reason to believe the images involved constitute child pornography, a referral will be made to the appropriate law enforcement officials. • Possessing, consuming, sharing, selling, distributing or exchanging alcoholic beverages or illegal substances or prescription drugs or over-the-counter medicine or being under the influence of any of the above. Being under the influence of “illegal substances” includes, but is not limited to, inhalants, marijuana, cannabinoids, cocaine, LSD, PCP, amphetamines, heroin, steroids, look-alike drugs, and any substances, commonly referred to as “designer drugs.”• Using or sharing prescription and over-the-counter drugs.• Possession of drug paraphernalia, including, but not limited to: pipes, bongs, e-cigarettes, vaporizing devices, rolling papers, grinders, lighters, plastic bags used for packaging and distribution of drugs, scales, and any other items used for distribution, packaging, exchanging or use of drugs, whether in school, at school facilities or at school functions conducted off school grounds.• Lying to, or concealing the truth from, school personnel.• Stealing/acquiring the property of other students, school personnel or any other person lawfully on school property or attending a school function.• Defamation, which includes making false or unprivileged statements or representations about an individual or identifiable group of individuals that harm the reputation of the person or the identifiable group by demeaning them.• Discrimination, which includes, but is not limited to the use of race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sex, sexual orientation or gender (including gender identity and expression) as a basis for treating another in a negative manner. See definitions.• Harassment, including sexual harassment and bullying. See definitions.• Intimidation, which includes engaging in actions or statements that put an individual in fear of bodily harm.• Hazing. See definitions.• Using vulgar or abusive language, cursing or swearing.• Possessing, smoking, selling, distributing or exchanging a cigarette, cigar, pipe or using chewing or smokeless tobacco, electronic cigarettes, vaporizers, device, Hookah cigarettes or possessing tobacco products as defined by the Board of Education Policy and Suffolk County Legislation.• Gambling.• Selling, using, or possessing obscene material.

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• Indecent exposure, that is exposure to sight of the private parts of the body in a lewd or indecent manner.• Initiating a report warning of fire or other catastrophe without valid cause, misuse of 911, or discharging a fire extinguisher.• Engaging in any activity that violates any local state or federal law.• Bullying is understood to be a hostile activity, which harms or induces fear through the threat of further aggression and/or creates terror. Bullying involves an imbalance of power or strength and can manifest itself physically, verbally or through non-verbal communication such as gestures or social exclusion.• Cyber bullying (also known as “digital” or “electronic bullying”) which is the repeated use of information technology such as the Internet, email, social networks, instant messaging services, blogs, cell phones and gaming systems to deliberately harass, threaten or intimidate others. Cyber bullying may involve sending mean, vulgar or threatening messages or images; posting sensitive or private information about another person; pretending to be someone else in order to malign that other person; or intentionally excluding someone from an internet-based group or activity.• Students may not be in possession of any type of medication. All 
prescriptions and medications must be given to and dispensed by the school nurse.

Engage in HAZING, INITIATION ACTIVITIES, HARASSMENT AND BULLYING:Hazing, initiation activities, harassment and bullying are abusive and often illegal

behaviors that harm victims and negatively impact the school environment by creating an atmosphere of fear, distrust, mean-spiritedness, intimidation and intolerance. Hazing is especially troubling at the middle and high school levels because of issues of adolescence, in which many students are more vulnerable to peer pressure due to the tremendous need to belong, make friends and find approval from one’s peer group. Accordingly, hazing, initiation activities, harassment and bullying will not be tolerated at any level in Half Hollow Hills as they are deemed dangerous, volatile of the law and district policy and immoral.

The purpose of this policy is to ensure a safe learning environment for students and staff that is free from hazing, initiation activities, harassment and bullying and that promotes respect, civility, dignity and equality. Hazing, initiation activities, harassment and bullying activities of any type are inconsistent with the educational goals of the District, and are condemned and strictly prohibited at all times. Moreover, it is the policy of the District that no student or adult will participate in or be members of any secret fraternity or sorority, athletic team, club or organization that is in any degree related to the school or to a school district activity which engages in any form of hazing, initiation activities, harassment or bullying, whether on school grounds, school buses or at all school- sponsored activities, programs and events, including those that take place at locations outside the district.General Policy Statements

A. No student, teacher, coach, administrator, paraprofessional, volunteer, contractor or other employee of the District shall plan, direct, encourage, aid or engage in hazing, initiation activities, harassment, or bullying.B. No student, teacher, coach, administrator, paraprofessional, volunteer, contractor or other employee of the District shall permit, condone or tolerate hazing, initiation activities, harassment or bullying.

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C. The District strictly prohibits students, teachers, coaches, administrators, paraprofessionals, volunteers, contractors or other employees of the District from engaging individually or collectively in any form of hazing, initiation activities, harassment or bullying on school property, off school property or on a school bus, in connection with any school activity or involving any person associated with the school, regardless of where it occurs.D. Consistent with this policy, the District’s Code of Conduct and the Athletic Code of Conduct, any student who participates in hazing, initiation activities, harassment or bullying will face immediate and strong disciplinary action, up to and including suspension, expulsion, exclusion and loss of the privilege of attendance and participation in extracurricular activities and sports and school events (i.e., graduation, prom, dances, field trips, etc.)E. Students, teachers, coaches, administrators, paraprofessionals, volunteers, contractors or other employees who participate in hazing, initiation activities, harassment or bullying will also be referred to appropriate law enforcement authorities and may face subsequent prosecution for hazing, harassment or assault.F. Consent is no defense to a charge of hazing, initiation activities, harassment or bullying. Apparent permission or consent by a person being hazed, initiated, harassed or bullied does not lessen the prohibitions or penalties contained herein.G. This policy applies to behavior that occurs on or off school property or on any school bus ride and during, before and after school hours.

Reporting- In order for the District to effectively enforce this policy, it is essential that all victims of hazing, initiation activities, harassment or bullying and persons with knowledge of hazing, initiation activities, harassment or bullying report them immediately. Visit our website at hhh.k12.ny.us to access forms for reporting any complaints.

School District Action- the District will promptly investigate all complaints, formal or informal, verbal or written of hazing, initiation activities, harassment or bullying.

Engage in MISCONDUCT WHILE ON A SCHOOL BUS OR AT A BUS STOP:It is crucial for students to behave appropriately at the bus stop and while riding on District buses to ensure their safety and that of other passengers and to avoid distracting the bus driver. Students are required to conduct themselves at the stop and/or on the bus in a respectful manner consistent with established standards for classroom behavior. Excessive noise, pushing, shoving and fighting will not be tolerated.

Engage in MISCONDUCT WHILE AT A SCHOOL-SPONSORED ACTIVITY on or off school property. Examples of such conduct include, but are not limited to:

• Conduct that is disorderly, insubordinate, disruptive, violent, and/or endangers the safety, morals, health or welfare of themselves or others.• Activation of cell phones, tablets, laptops or any other electronic device, without prior approval from the Principal.

Engage in any form of ACADEMIC MISCONDUCT. Examples of academic misconduct include, but are not limited to:

• Plagiarism• Cheating• Copying

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• Altering records• Assisting another student in any of the above actions

Student Use of Electronic DevicesTo avoid disruption of the learning process and to prevent possible theft, cell phones,

tablets, laptops or any other electronic devices are not to be activated or visible during the school day (7:15 a.m.- 2: 00p.m. at the high schools, and 7:45 a.m.-2:40 p.m. at the middle schools) without prior written approval from the Principal. These items may be confiscated if activated or visible in school, and only released to the student’s parent or guardian. However, in the event of a school-related emergency, cell phones may be activated and visible.

Requests for the approved usage of electronic devices during the school day must originate from a teacher and must be accompanied by a detailed description of the intended use. Requests may be granted only for specific time periods as articulated in the description of intended use. Requests for unlimited use within the building or throughout the day will not be approved. Requests will not be accepted from students or their families.

Zero Tolerance for Drugs, Alcohol and WeaponsThe Half Hollow Hills Central School District has “zero tolerance” for drugs, alcohol

and the possession of weapons. Students who are involved with drugs, alcohol or are in possession of a weapon in the school setting or at a school related event will be suspended from school and automatically referred for a Superintendent’s Hearing for an extended out of school suspension. If a student is found to be in possession of an illegal substance of any quantity or a weapon, law enforcement personnel will be called and the student may be arrested at the school. The school administration will cooperate with the police and provide them with any relevant information regarding the incident.

The Half Hollow Hills Central School District’s Code of Conduct includes specific prohibition against the possession of drug paraphernalia and weapons (see Prohibited Conduct).

Notification of Law EnforcementThe Half Hollow Hills Central School District will notify law enforcement /school personnel when a student has been found to be in possession of:

• drugs, alcohol or related paraphernalia• a weapon• child pornography

When a threatening statement is directed to a school, student or group of students, staff members, law enforcement personnel will be notified. This includes, but is not limited to statements made verbally, written, or via digital means (i.e. text messages, social media, email, etc.).

Disciplinary Penalties, Procedures and Referrals Discipline is most effective when it deals directly with the problem at the time and

place it occurs, and in a way that students view as fair and impartial. School personnel who interact with students are expected to use disciplinary action only when necessary and to place emphasis on the student’s ability to grow in self-discipline.

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Disciplinary action, when necessary, will be firm, fair and consistent so as to be the most effective in changing student behavior. In determining the appropriate disciplinary action, school personnel authorized to impose disciplinary penalties will consider the following:

• Student’s age.• The nature of the offense and the circumstances which led to the offense.• The student’s prior disciplinary record.• The effectiveness of other forms of discipline.• Information from parents, teachers and/or others, as appropriate.• Other extenuating circumstances.

As a general rule, discipline will be progressive. This means that a student’s first violation will usually merit a lighter penalty than subsequent violations.

Students with a disability can be suspended even if the incident is related to his disability if the incident is related to the safety of others. Discipline, if warranted, shall be administered consistent with federal law and Board of Education Policies for disciplining students with a disability, or presumed to have a disability.

PenaltiesStudents who are found to have violated the District’s Code of Conduct may be

subject to the following penalties, either alone or in combination. The school personnel identified after each penalty are authorized to impose that penalty, consistent with the student’s right to due process.

• Oral warning - any member of the District staff.• Written warning - coaches, activity directors, guidance counselors, teachers, principal, and Superintendent.• Written notification to parent - coaches, activity directors, guidance counselors, teachers, principal, Superintendent.• Detention - teachers, principal, Superintendent.• Suspension from transportation - principal, assistant superintendent, Superintendent.• Suspension from athletic participation - coaches, principal, Superintendent, or Superintendent’s designee.• Suspension from social or extracurricular activities - activity director, advisor, principal, Superintendent, or Superintendent’s designee.• Suspension of other privileges - principal, Superintendent, or Superintendent’s designee• In-school supervision - principal, Superintendent.• Removal from classroom - teachers, principal.• Short-term (five days or less) suspension from school - principal, Superintendent• Long-term (Pursuant to Education Law § 3214 -more than five days) suspension from school, subject to a Superintendent’s hearing - Superintendent, Board of Education.• Permanent suspension from school - Superintendent, Board of Education

ProceduresThe amount of due process a student is entitled to receive before a penalty is imposed

depends on the penalty being imposed. In all cases, regardless of the penalty imposed, the school personnel authorized to impose the penalty must inform the student of the alleged

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misconduct and must investigate, to the extent necessary, the facts surrounding the alleged misconduct. All students will have an opportunity to present their version of the facts to the school personnel imposing the disciplinary penalty in connection with the imposition of the penalty. Students who are to be given penalties other than an oral warning, written warning or written notification to their parents are entitled to additional rights before the penalty is imposed. These additional rights are explained below.

Minimum Periods of SuspensionStudents who bring a weapon to or possess a weapon in school (See Board of Education Policy #5535):

Any student found guilty of bringing or possessing a weapon on school property will be subject to suspension from school for at least one calendar year. Before being suspended, the student will have an opportunity for a hearing pursuant to Education Law § 3214. The Superintendent has the authority to modify the one-year suspension on a case-by-case basis. In deciding whether to modify the penalty, the Superintendent may consider the following:

• The student’s age.• The student’s grade in school.• The student’s prior disciplinary record.• Input from parents, teachers and/or others.• The Superintendent’s belief that other forms of discipline may be more 
effective.• Other extenuating circumstances.

A student with a disability may be suspended only in accordance with the requirements of state and federal law.

Students who commit violent acts other than bringing a weapon to school:Any student who is found to have committed a violent act, other than bringing a weapon onto school property, shall be subject to suspension from school for at least five days. If the proposed penalty is the minimum five-day suspension, the student and the student’s parents will be given the same notice and opportunity for an informal conference given to all students subject to a short-term suspension. If the proposed penalty exceeds the minimum five-day suspension, the student and the student’s parents will be given the same notice and opportunity for a hearing given to all students subject to a long-term suspension. The Superintendent has the authority to modify the minimum five-day suspension on a case-by-case basis. In deciding whether to modify the penalty, the Superintendent may consider the same factors considered in modifying a one-year suspension for possessing a weapon.

Students who are repeatedly substantially disruptive of the educational process or repeatedly substantially interferes with the teacher’s authority over the classroom:Any student who repeatedly is substantially disruptive of the educational process or substantially interferes with the teacher’s authority over the classroom will be suspended from school for at least five days. For purposes of this Code, “repeatedly is substantially disruptive” means engaging in conduct that results in the student being removed from the classroom by teacher(s) pursuant to Education Law § 3214 (3-a) and this on four or more occasions during a semester, or three or more occasions during a trimester. If the proposed penalty is the minimum five-day suspension, the student and the student’s parents will be

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given the same notice and opportunity for a hearing given to all students subject to a long-term suspension. The Superintendent has the authority to modify the minimum five-day suspension on a case-by-case basis. In deciding whether to modify the penalty, the Superintendent may consider the same factors considered in modifying a one-year suspension for possessing a weapon.

REPORTING VIOLATIONS

All students are expected to promptly report violations of the Code of Conduct to a teacher, guidance counselor, the building principal or his or her designee. Any student observing a student possessing a weapon, alcohol or illegal substance on school property or at a school function shall report this information immediately to a teacher, the building principal, the principal’s designee or the superintendent.

All District staff who are authorized to impose disciplinary sanctions are expected to do so in a prompt, fair and lawful manner. District staff who are not authorized to impose disciplinary sanctions are expected to promptly report violations of the Code of Conduct to their supervisor, who shall in turn impose an appropriate disciplinary sanction if so authorized, or refer the matter to a staff member who is authorized to impose an appropriate sanction.

Any weapon, alcohol or illegal substance found shall be confiscated immediately, if possible, followed by notification to the parent of the student involved and the appropriate disciplinary sanction if warranted, which may include permanent suspension and referral for prosecution.

The building principal or his or her designee must notify the appropriate local law enforcement agency of those Code violations that constitute a crime and substantially affect the order or security of a school as soon as practical, but in no event later than the close of business the day the principal or his or her designee learns of the violation. The notification may be made by telephone. The notification must identify the student and explain the con-duct that violated the Code of Conduct and constituted a crime.

Revised July 2014

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PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE:

“Success is a science; if you have the conditions, you get the result.” The words of Oscar Wilde reflect the significance of preparation and understanding; two basic ingredients that will certainly guide students on a path to best realize their goals. Similar to how an explorer utilizes a compass, we welcome you to the Student Handbook. The purpose of this resource is to serve as an informative guide throughout the year. Inside you will find pertinent information that emphasizes school policies and different aspects of our programs.

Additionally, this handbook serves as a pact which clearly outlines your rights as a student as well as clearly highlights expectations for acceptable student behavior. Please take the time to read and become familiar with its contents. It is an honor to serve as your principal, and as such, I pledge in being a staunch advocate for the rights of every member of our school community, likewise, I expect that right to be respected unequivocally; and will hold all members of our school community accountable for their actions as well.

As an institution steeped in a rich tradition of excellence, with an equally dedicated administration, staff and faculty; High School East is nationally recognized as one of the finest schools in the country. The rich academic offerings coupled with a wide variety of extracurricular opportunities and a strong interscholastic athletic program will assuredly provide no boundaries to the limit of one’s experiences.

As we embark on a new school year, you are encouraged to get involved and to be a positive contributor to our amazingly rich and diverse school community. For all the resources a school may provide, its student body has and will continue to be its most valuable. It is your passion, thoughts and ideas, and above all your spirit that makes High School East truly come to life. Looking forward to an outstanding year!

Sincerely,Dr. Milton K. Strong, Principal

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DISCIPLINE POLICY STATEMENT

The Board of Education of the Half Hollow Hills Central School District of Huntington and Babylon is based on a belief in democracy and the democratic process. We believe that a sound education includes instruction on how to live in a democracy on a practical level, not just in theory but through curriculum instruction in social studies and civics. To appreciate the fundamental fact that the rights of the individual can only be preserved by the protection of the rights of others, students must live in a school environment where these rights and responsibilities are actively demonstrated on a daily basis.

We further believe that in addition to teaching and modeling democratic principles in the schools, we have an additional responsibility to provide an educational climate that promotes the optimum learning experience for each student. For the pursuit of excellence to take place in the school community, a code of discipline is essential. In this sense, discipline is not a negative concept but is a body of rights and responsibilities that creates a healthy learning environment where students are physically and emotionally safe and, therefore, able to develop intellectually, creatively, and socially. Students and parents can be assured that the establishment of a district wide code of discipline supports their own aspirations for excellence in education, a goal for which the Half Hollow Hills Central School District has historically been dedicated to providing the community.

Finally, the Board of Education is committed to the adoption of sound principles of child rearing. Longitudinal educational research indicates that children require both responsibilities and limits to develop positive self-regard. The absence of discipline (limits) or, on the other hand, discipline that is overly harsh tends to develop personalities that are, respectively, overly-aggressive and overly passive. Both of these personality structures get negative responses from the school community and from society at large. Since positive self-regard depends largely on the attitudes that significant adults display toward appropriate behavior, students then learn self-respect as they get adult approval for their behavior.

The discipline code has been developed to incorporate the policies stated above. When we overview the educational program and our discipline code, we feel confident that we are providing our students with the necessary tools to become good citizens who will make positive contributions to their families, their community, and their country.

OVERVIEW

Good school discipline provides consistency and direction. Students and parents know what specific steps will be taken when a rule is broken and also know the proper steps to take if they are dissatisfied.

Discipline is most effective when it deals directly with the problem at the time and place it occurs and in a way that is viewed as fair and impartial by the student. Therefore, before seeking outside assistance, teachers will first use all their resources to create a change of behavior in the classroom. When the teacher has made every reasonable effort to bring about positive behavioral change and has been unsuccessful, the student will be referred to

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the administration who will determine what further action will be most appropriate to effect positive change for the student and for the building.

The rules and standards of appropriate behavior apply to conduct on school premises, on school buses, and at school functions of any kind. The expectation is that students will be able to discriminate between appropriate and inappropriate behavior in accordance with their age level and intellectual ability. It is also expected that students will report, to the appropriate school authority, any situation that is considered dangerous or inappropriate.

Students live and function, as do adults, in the community. As citizens, students are also subject to its national, state and local laws and school rules governing various aspects of conduct. Not all laws or rules are easy to follow nor need one necessarily agree with each and every law or rule. If a law or rule seems unjust or inappropriate, citizens have a right to petition our government to change that law or rule. Likewise, parents and students have the right to question the fairness and justness of certain school rules. However, in the meantime, the law or rule must be followed to have an orderly and manageable framework within which to operate.

STUDENTS’ RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The following guidelines are designed to promote understanding among students, parents, teachers and administrators. They have been developed to foster the relationship between the students and those adults responsible for overseeing their growth. In exercising his/her constitutional rights, a student shall not disrupt the educational process, endanger or deprive others of their rights.

DINING AREA: (Cafeteria ONLY) Right: Students have a right to dine in clean, healthful and safe surroundings.

Responsibility: Students have the responsibility to dispose of trash in the proper receptacles. In the tradition of school pride, students will assume a collective responsibility for the cleaning of the table at which they are dining.

Cafeteria monitors will wash table tops and chairs after students have removed all refuse. Eating is prohibited in the Student Center.

EDUCATIONRight: Students have the right to a public education unabridged or impaired because of sex, race, religion, national origin, pregnancy, parenthood, marriage or any reason not related to individual capabilities.

Responsibility: Students have the responsibility to ensure that such expression is in good taste, does not disrupt the educational process, present health or safety hazards or damage public property. Student expressions of speech should be on an elevated level as opposed to being either base or degrading.

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EXPRESSIONRight: Students have the right to express themselves in speech, writing or symbolism. Students also have the right to refrain from expressing themselves.

Responsibility: Students have the responsibility to ensure that such expression is in good taste, does not disrupt the educational process, present health or safety hazards or damage public property. Student expressions of speech should be on an elevated level as opposed to being either base or degrading.

LEARNING ENVIRONMENTRight: Students have the right to an undisrupted school and classroom environment which will ensure optimum learning for all students.

Responsibility: Students have the responsibility to ensure that their actions do not disrupt the school and classroom environment and to participate in their school activities in an acceptable manner.

PEACEFUL ASSEMBLY Right: Students have the right to peaceful assembly.

Responsibility: Students have the responsibility to secure approval for using school facilities for such assembly to ensure the facilities are appropriate for the function and that such assembly does not disrupt the educational process. (Unavailability of adequate supervision shall constitute grounds for disapproval of such assembly.)

POSSESSION AND DISTRIBUTION OF LITERATURERight: Students have the right to possess and distribute literature including, but not limited to newspapers, magazines, leaflets and pamphlets.

Responsibility: Students have the responsibility to submit a copy of such literature to the principal (or designee) in sufficient time for the principal to review and evaluate the material. It is furthermore the student’s responsibility to ensure that distribution or possession will not conflict with or infringe upon school activities. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that such material is not seditious, libelous, or salacious. The time, place and manner of distribution, if distribution is permitted, shall be determined by the principal (or designee).

PRIVACYRight: Students have the right to protection from unlawful searches and seizures of their personal possessions or searches of their person. Lockers, desks and other such storage spaces remain the exclusive property of the school, and students have no expectation of privacy with respect to these areas.

Responsibility: Students have the responsibility not to endanger themselves, other students, school personnel, or the general public by possessing material or objects which are potentially hazardous and/or prohibited by federal, state or local law, or the provisions of this code. If the principal (or designee) has a responsible basis for believing the student is concealing such objects or material, the principal has a responsibility to conduct a search.

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RELIGION Right: Students have the right to their own religious beliefs.

Responsibility: Students have the responsibility to ensure that in exercising their own religious freedom, they do not violate the right of religious freedom of others and they do not disrupt the educational process. In our pluralistic society, we expect students to understand and respect the religious beliefs of others.

TRANSPORTATIONRight: Students have the right to safe and orderly transportation to and from school when such transportation is provided by the school district.

Responsibility: Students have the responsibility to ensure that their conduct contributes to a safe and orderly atmosphere while being transported; to refrain from conduct which will offer a hazard to themselves, their fellow students or the general public; and to refrain from violating federal, state, or local law. Students should be aware that when traveling away from school, their behavior reflects upon themselves, their families, their school and their community.

DEFINITION OF TERMS

ACTIVITY SUSPENSIONStudents who do not abide with school policies and rules of behavior will be subject to an activity suspension. By definition, this means students will not be permitted to stay on school premises after 2:10 pm for a specific number of days as assigned by building administration. If an activity suspension is enacted, a letter will be sent to the child’s parents.

DETENTIONStudent will be required to remain at school during and/or beyond the end of the regular school day (2:00 pm). When a student is assigned detention he/she will receive a notice that he/she is to go to detention for said time. School officials will make every effort to notify his/her parents. Detention will be conducted as a study period and will be supervised by a member of the professional staff. The student must bring suitable study material and must report to the assigned room on time. If the student does not serve the assigned detention, he/she will be assigned two days of detention by the detention teacher.

If the student fails to attend a second time, he/she will be assigned a full day of ISS (In-School-Supervision) by the grade level administrator.

INAPPROPRIATE LANGUAGESee “Prohibited Student Conduct” in Student Code of Conduct.

IN-SCHOOL SUPERVISIONIn-School-Supervision (ISS) school level consequence in which the assigned student is separated from their regularly assigned schedule. The ISS teacher will distribute any class work assignments, supervise their completion and return the completed assignments to the

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appropriate teachers. When assignments are not available, students are expected to make use of educational material available in the ISS room. Full day ISS assignments may not exceed five (5) consecutive days. ISS is assigned by a building administrator. At that time, school officials will make every effort to notify a student’s parents in a timely fashion.

SUSPENSIONSuspension is a temporary denial of the rights of a student to attend regular day school. This restriction extends to all school related activities. Suspension is assigned because of a student’s inappropriate actions which disrupt the orderly function and/or learning atmosphere of the school. Suspension shall be considered a right of the principal when the seriousness of a particular charge against a student merits this action.

The student will be given oral or written notice of the charge(s) and an opportunity to present his/her view of the issue(s). In the case of a student whose presence poses a danger to person(s) and/or property, and/or an ongoing threat of disrupting the academic process, the student may be removed immediately from school. Suspension shall be for a stated time not to exceed five (5) consecutive school days per incident.

SUPERINTENDENT’S SUSPENSIONA Superintendent’s Suspension may be imposed after a Superintendent’s Hearing occurs. This hearing is conducted for the most serious and egregious violations of the Student Code of Conduct. This may include, but not limited to situations involving drugs, alcohol, violence, weapon possession, threatening a staff member, and other serious offenses.

RULES AND REGULATIONS

All rules and regulations are in effect during and after school hours or at any other time when the school and/or grounds are being used by a school group. The rules and regulations also apply to any school activity, function or event, and when students are traveling to or from school. Any student found to be in violation of any one or more of these rules and regulations shall be subject to disciplinary action. This may include but not limited to reprimand, repayment for physical damage, cleanup, revocation of privileges associated with school activities, detention, exclusion from class, In-School Supervision or Out-of-School Suspension.

AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIESStudents in the building between 2:10 pm and 5:20 pm are to be spectators and/or participants in supervised activities only. These activities may be curriculum based or a co-curricular activity such as a club and/or sport. Students not involved in these activities, but who remain after school, are subject to school discipline. Students who have not arrived at an approved activity by 2:20 pm may be subject to school discipline as well.

ASSEMBLY BEHAVIORWhen students enter the auditorium and/or lecture hall for a presentation, they should proceed to their seats in an orderly and calm fashion. Students should treat all guests with respect and give them their undivided attention. Therefore, shouting, calling out, whistling

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and other inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated. At the end of a particular presentation, building administration or their assigned designee will dismiss students.

ATTENDANCE Students are expected to attend school every day, and arrive at the scheduled time, every day. Legal reasons for absence, according to New York State Law, include illness of student or family member, death in the family, and required court appearance.

In order for students to participate in any after school activity (athletics, clubs, etc.), students must have attended school that day. All students must arrive to school before 10:00 am to be considered eligible unless an administrator approves otherwise. This applies to any school day when class is in session.

ATTENDANCE / ABSENCE Excused calls should take place the same day as the absence. A note should be submitted the day the student returns; however, if there are extenuating circumstances, a note will be accepted no later than one week following the absence. No changes will be made after that time. All tests and missed work during the absence must be made up as soon as possible after returning to school.

BALL PLAYING After school hours, athletic endeavors are permitted in designated areas with supervision only.

BIAS CRIMESNew York State’s Dignity for All Students Act seeks to provide a safe and supportive environment free from discrimination, intimidation, taunting, harassment, and bullying on school property, a district transportation and/or at a school function. Respect and dignity for others include: an awareness and sensitivity in the relations of people, including but not limited to, different races, weights, national origins, ethnic groups, religions, religious practices, mental or physical abilities, sexual orientations, gender identity, and sexes (New York State Education Department, 2019).

In addition, committing hate crimes such as desecrating a cross or placing a swastika with the intent to harass, annoy, threaten or alarm another person is against school regulations. Students who commit bias crimes that use these symbols will be subject to school disciplinary action and furthermore this misconduct will be reported to local law enforcement authorities.

CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY School property is your property. Take care of it. Treat this property with the same consideration you would for your own home. Take pride in keeping the halls and grounds clean. Throw waste paper into the containers provided. Do not markup desks, lockers, etc. since such equipment is expensive and subject to hardware through the usual daily usage. Students found to be responsible for destroying/defacing (including graffiti) school property will be held liable for the damage and therefore responsible to pay all costs to replace the damaged school property. Additional administrative action may include detention, exclusion from class, ISS and/or Out-of-School Suspension.

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CHEATINGCheating on an assignment and/or tests is in direct conflict with the academic integrity policy of High School East. Students found guilty of cheating and/or plagiarizing assignments, which includes copying information directly off the Internet without proper referencing, will be given a zero for that assignment or test and teachers will promptly notify the parents. In addition, students should never leave a classroom with any form of an assessment. Please note: Current and prospective members of the National Honor Society will also face a disciplinary hearing to determine the continuation of their membership. Administrative discipline may also be applied. Class notes may be shared but may not be sold to other students. Please refer to the full Half Hollow Hills Academic Integrity Policy (page 53) for more information.

CLASS CUTTING It is expressly understood that class cutting is not permitted. Since an important part of each subject grade is based on class participation, an illegal absence from class may result in lower marks on an individual’s report card. Classes are to be attended daily. Infractions of this rule will result in the following disciplinary actions as per the Board of Education Policy #5100 (approved October 24, 2016):

Disciplinary Action for Unexcused AbsencesUnexcused absence 1: Teacher notifies parent, detention is assigned.Unexcused absence 2: Teacher notifies parent, detention is assigned.Unexcused absence 3: Teacher notifies parent and detention is assigned. Teacher gives

written notice to the grade level administrator who meets with the student.

Unexcused absence 4: Teacher notifies the grade level administrator. The grade level administrator will meet with the student and assign ISS (In School Supervision). A conference with the parent will be held.

Unexcused absence 5: Teacher will notify the grade level administrator. A conference with the parent will be held. The student will be subject to OSS (Out-of-School Suspension).

Attendance/Grade Policy: The Board of Education recognizes that class attendance is essential to good student performance. Consequently a student’s final grade may be based on classroom participation as well as the student’s performance on homework, tests, papers, projects, etc. Students are expected to attend all scheduled classes. Unexcused absences, tardiness and/or early departures may affect a student’s class participation grade for the marking period.

Students who are truant and/or found cutting multiple classes during a specific day will receive disciplinary action which may include In-School Supervision and/or Out-of-School Suspension for a term to be designated by building administration.

The New York State Commissioner’s Regulation on Student Cutting has determined that if a student has cut class on the day of a test, project, or graded experience, a cut will be recorded with the appropriate administrative action. A grade of zero will be entered and averaged for the examination, project, or graded experience and the student will not be afforded the opportunity of a make-up.

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CLASS DISTURBANCEStudents may not disrupt a class or act in any manner to interfere with the teacher’s ability to conduct a lesson. Classroom misconduct determined to be extreme or excessive by the teacher and/or administrator will result in disciplinary action which may include detention, exclusion from class, ISS and/or Out-of-School Suspension.

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE ABUSEAny student found using, possessing, administering, dispensing, or under the influence of drugs, narcotics or alcohol in or around the school building or during school sponsored functions will be suspended, and in the case of drugs, turned over to a representative of the Suffolk County Police. In such cases the maximum penalty will be applied. (See Code of Conduct). Additionally, any student who is present within a group of students when a controlled substance is being used or when a controlled substance or drug paraphernalia is visible is subject to school discipline. Any student exercising control over a locker, bag or any other item concealing drugs is subject to school discipline.

DIRT BIKES Dirt bikes or unregistered vehicles are not allowed on school grounds under any circumstances. Students operating unlicensed vehicles are subject to school disciplinary measures and referral to local law enforcement agencies. Registered vehicles may only be operated by licensed drivers on designated school roadways.

ELECTRONIC DEVICESSmart phones, iPods, MP3 players, headphones, and other electronic devices not required for classes or other academic purposes should not be activated during school hours. The use of technology in the classroom will always be at the discretion of the teacher. If a student decides to utilize their device and/or accessories on schools grounds, they willingly take full responsibility for their respective device as the school is not responsible. In addition, for the safety of all students, headphones should not be worn in the halls. In this day and age, it is imperative that all students remain present and in the moment for important impromptu announcements and /or directives. However, the Student Center, Cafeteria and Library will serve as technology friendly areas for students. In addition, please carefully review the notice in regard to social media. Students found to be in violation of the Code of Conduct, which involves the use of smart phones and/or electronic device(s) may result in their device being confiscated by building administration.

Additionally, students may not photograph, record, videotape, etc. any member of the Half Hollow Hills community, including other students, or its guests without prior teacher and/or administrative approval. Inherent in this statement is the prohibition of the distribution of any type of material as outlined above.

EXTORTIONStudents should not solicit money from other students in any area of the school, especially in the cafeteria. Taking or threatening to take the property of others through intimidation or other means shall result in parent notification, provision for return of property, and referral to law enforcement agencies. In addition, a student may receive disciplinary action which may include detention, exclusion from class, ISS and/or Out-of-School Suspension.

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FALSE FIRE ALARMS / FALSE REPORTINGSetting or reporting a false fire alarm is a criminal offense. Therefore, any student found responsible for, or having any connection with the pulling of a false fire alarm, will be subject to suspension, immediate arrest and full criminal prosecution. In addition, the false reporting of information to building and/or district administration, whether verbally and/or electronically is a violation of the Code of Conduct. This type of behavior will result in an investigation and if warranted, disciplinary action which may include detention, exclusion from class, ISS, Out-of-School Suspension and/or a Superintendent’s Hearing.

FALSE REPORTING OF BOMB THREATS New York State has a law establishing a felony penalty for making a bomb threat against schools. These threats are now punishable by up to a three year prison sentence, a $5,000 fine, and a mandatory one year driver’s license suspension. In addition, the False Reporting Act of 1999 allows the government, schools, and emergency service organizations to recover costs incurred when responding to a false report of a bomb. This law holds individuals, or parents of those under the age of 18 who make bomb threats, liable for the costs of responding to these threats. Therefore, any student responsible for, or having connection with reporting or making of a false bomb threat will be subject to suspension and a Superintendent’s Hearing.

FIELD TRIPSA student may be excluded from attending field trips if one or more of his/her teachers believes that the student would benefit from attending classes or has been suspended out of school or has been in “In School Supervision” on a regular basis. Any student who has been suspended out of school for drug or violence related incidents will be excluded from participating in any field trips for the remainder of the school year.

FIREWORKSFireworks are not allowed on school grounds under any circumstances. Students in possession or using fireworks will be suspended from school and law enforcement agents may be notified. Student may also be subject to a Superintendent’s Hearing.

GAMBLINGPlaying games of chance for money is not permitted. Students are not permitted to play dice, or card games, under any circumstances. Students violating this rule will be referred to an administrator for immediate action which may lead to detention, ISS or Out-of-School Suspension.

HALL PASSESAny student who asks permission to leave the classroom must have their Student Agenda Book “Hallway Passport” section – signed by the teacher or an official, blue school pass only.

HARASSMENT An individual, or a group of individuals, is guilty of aggravated harassment when annoying, threatening, or alarming another person(s) because of a belief or thought, or perception regarding su